Vince McMahon, co-founder of WWE and a wrestling icon, has resigned from his position as executive chairman of the board of directors at TKO Group, WWE’s parent company, following accusations of sexual misconduct and sex trafficking.
Former WWE employee Janel Grant filed a lawsuit in Connecticut, alleging that McMahon subjected her to sexual exploitation, including offering her to an unnamed star wrestler for sex. The lawsuit also accuses McMahon of forcing Grant into a sexual relationship to keep her job, sharing explicit photos and videos of her with other men, including WWE staff, and engaging in “acts of extreme cruelty and degradation” that left her traumatized.
McMahon denies the allegations and has described the lawsuit as “replete with lies” and “a vindictive distortion of the truth.” He has vowed to vigorously defend himself against the accusations.
The lawsuit also alleges that WWE “benefited financially” from McMahon’s actions by presenting Grant “as a sexual commodity for their use” and having wrestling talent sign new contracts.
John Laurinaitis, the former head of talent relations and general manager of WWE, is also accused in the case but has not yet commented on the allegations.
Vince McMahon stepped down as WWE chief executive in 2022 amid similar allegations. WWE merged with TKO Group, the parent company of the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship), last year to create TKO Group Holdings.
TKO Group has stated that it takes the allegations “very seriously” and is addressing the matter internally, emphasizing that McMahon does not control TKO nor oversee WWE’s day-to-day operations.
Vince McMahon, known for his contributions to the wrestling world and the creation of WWE, has played a significant role in the wrestling industry for decades. His resignation comes amidst a legal battle that has brought to light serious allegations against him.